Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

Learning environment enhanced with installation of nora^® floors

When officials at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History wanted to upgrade three major exhibit areas, they were looking for a flooring material that would match the natural aesthetic of the museum’s large dioramas of bears, seals and other large mammals. They selected norament^® arago premium rubber flooring, believing that the floor’s nature-inspired designs would match the look designers were seeking for the habitats. And they are thrilled with the results.

The premium rubber flooring “looks right and hits on the design aesthetic,” according to Frank Hein, Director of Exhibits. It also creates a quieter environment for learning and reduces glare off the display glass, he says. The walking comfort, durability and sustainable origins of the floor are added benefits, he says, and its low-maintenance regimen is popular with the cleaning staff, which has 13 acres of space to maintain.

The areas to be renovated had both carpet and red cement tile floors, causing a variety of problems for the facility, which averages more than 150,000 visitors each year, including many school-age children. The cement proved to be noisy and visually unappealing -- out of sync with the natural look of the galleries. And the carpet was even worse.

“They hit the mark; the halls turned out great,” Hein says. “The exhibits really stand out. And the rooms are really effective in creating a positive environment for teaching the kids.”